Holly MatkinCharlotte, NC – Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) Officer Dean Lauber died on Dec. 20, 2022, after suffering a medical emergency one day earlier.
The 52-year-old officer suffered a non-work-related medical emergency while off-duty at his residence on Dec. 19, 2022, and was rushed to a local hospital, the City of Charlotte said in a press release two days later.
“Sadly, Officer Lauber passed away last night surrounded by his wife, Jessica (a CFD firefighter), his children and members of his CMPD Family,” the city said.
Details regarding the veteran officer’s exact cause of death were not released.
Officer Lauber served as a volunteer firefighter and assistant chief for the Doyle Fire District in Cheektowaga, New York, for 12 years prior to joining the CMPD, The Charlotte Observer reported.
He also worked as a public safety dispatcher and emergency medical technician during his time in in Cheektowaga, according to the paper.
Officer Lauber joined the CMPD in 2001 and was assigned to the Independence Division in southeast Charlotte, The Charlotte Observer reported.
He was also a member of the CMPD’s Salute to Heroes Foundation hockey team.
“Even before we lost Dean, I was told by so many on how impactful he was to all of us at CMPD and how much he meant to so many of us,” CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings said during the fallen officer’s funeral service, according to WSOC.
In addition to his wife, Officer Lauber leaves behind his sons, Zach and Nathan, The Charlotte Observer reported.
“Please keep his family and fellow officers in your prayers as they begin this difficult journey,” the City of Charlotte said. “We appreciate the public support during our bereavement.”
Officer Lauber was laid to rest on Dec. 29, 2022, according to his obituary.
On December 19, 2022 Independence Division Officer Dean Lauber suffered a medical emergency at home and was taken to the hospital. Last night, Officer Lauber passed away surrounded by his wife, Jessica (a @charlottefire firefighter), his children and members of his CMPD Family. pic.twitter.com/goBNDOSGtz
— CMPD News (@CMPD) December 21, 2022
This morning we’ll honor the life of Officer Dean Lauber. He was a leader in our department and set the standard for other officers. As one of the best Patrol Training Officers at @CMPD, he trained more than half of the Independence Division. He will truly be missed. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/GcbBWR2spg
— Chief Jennings (@cmpdchief) December 29, 2022
On Dec. 19, Officer Dean Lauber suffered a medical emergency at home and was taken to the hospital. Last night, he passed away surrounded by his wife, children and members of his @cmpd and @Charlottefd family. Charlotte Fire sends our deepest condolences to all who loved him. pic.twitter.com/rDUAdNj1it
— Charlotte Fire Dept. (@charlottefire) December 21, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Officer Dean Lauber, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
